Mafalda

I am a 39-year-old passionate pet friend, with a deep and somewhat natural understanding on how to interact with animals.I moved to Belgium in 2015, seeking a more open and pet inclusive society where I could bring Ozzy (my dog and best partner!) and it totally proved worthy. Animal behaviour is among my favourite readings: I am continuously on the search to extend my knowledge and experience in communicating with animals. The skills I got from positive clicker training are helpful, but I find that connection is the fundamental key to develop a healthy relationship with an animal. All my life I have had dogs and cats, had one hamster, I was riding horses, had chickens, ducks and rabbits at my grandma, made friends with a pig and a goat, also with a goose at a public park, knew the stray dogs by name. Hopefully, in the future, I can be exclusively working with animals: either on rescue or with assistance/therapy dogs, along the path of becoming a behaviourist. There is a long road to go, but the best way to get acquainted with the subject is to effectively be surrounded with as many different characters and behaviours as possible. For the time being, working full-time as a lab technician and walking my dog at least 3 times a day, I have restricted spare time for pet-sitting. But it's such a rewarding experience, that I still welcome any pet so that we learn from each other. I am available after 17h on weekdays and on a more flexible schedule during the weekends.

Both for cat visits and dog walks, I spend a minimum of 30 minutes up to 45 minutes and you get a daily update with photos. Currently, on weekdays, I am only willing to do home visits. Unless we live really close to each other, it's a bit too impractical for dog walks. I can come to visit your cat(s), play a bit, exchange some cuddles and prrrrr's, clean and refill water and food bowls, and clear the litter box. Or go for a walk, if that's something you do already. If you are away for longer periods, I will collect your mail and water the plants too. (Currently not committing to long periods, just for a couple of days or so).

Dog walks can sometimes take a bit longer, depending on the mood, both of the dog and mine :) I walk them preferably with a long leash and harness, along with green areas. If there's a dog park nearby, depending on how social your dog is, we can go for off-leash time. Important is that your dog is safe, relaxed and happy. Other animals are equally welcome!